Spinal fusion (such as a TLIF) is a surgical technique to stabilize the spinal column. Lumbar fusion surgery is designed to create solid bone between the adjoining vertebrae, eliminating any movement between the bones. The goal of the surgery is to reduce pain and nerve irritation.
Spinal fusion may be recommended for cases of spinal instability such as spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease or recurrent disc herniations, spinal infections (e.g. tuberculosis or pyogenic), fractures of spine and spinal tumours.
For spinal fusion there are several techniques.
1. Posterior fusion (PF)
2. Posterolateral fusion (PLF)
3. Posterior Lumbar interbody Fusion (PLIF)
4. Transforaminal Lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)
5. Anterior Lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF)
6. Xtreme lateral Lumbar interbody fusion (XLIF)
TLIF is the most common technique used for degenerative spinal instability. We do it by minimally invasive way with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation. After surgery patient can be mobilized the next day and can be discharged in 3-4 days.